Die Philosoffen

The song 'Die Philosoffen' by Wise Guys is a humorous and satirical take on some of the most renowned philosophers in history. The lyrics playfully suggest that these great thinkers were often inebriated, using this as a metaphor to question the seriousness and clarity of their philosophical inquiries. The song opens with a jab at Aristotle, portraying him as a simpleton who pondered basic existential questions. This sets the tone for the rest of the song, which continues to mock other philosophers like Diogenes, Schopenhauer, Hegel, and Plato, suggesting that their profound thoughts were the result of drunken musings.

The chorus reinforces this idea, claiming that 'Die Philosoffen waren alle besoffen' (The philosophers were all drunk). This line is repeated throughout the song, emphasizing the notion that their philosophical insights were influenced by alcohol. The song humorously suggests that the truth is a 'Fass ohne Grund' (a barrel without a bottom), implying that it is elusive and perhaps unattainable, especially when one is intoxicated. The lyrics also touch on the idea that drinking might actually help one achieve success in life, a tongue-in-cheek commentary on the perceived absurdity of some philosophical ideas.

In the final verses, the song takes a more reflective turn, pondering the absence of women in the history of philosophy. It humorously suggests that the lack of female philosophers might have contributed to the 'schief gelaufen' (things going wrong) in the philosophical world. The song ends on a light-hearted note, with the narrator needing a drink to continue thinking, thus bringing the theme full circle. Overall, 'Die Philosoffen' is a clever and entertaining critique of the world of philosophy, using humor and satire to question the validity and seriousness of some of its most famous figures.